"The increase in the number of bars in the center of Rome is explained mainly by 'external' demand, which, unfortunately, over time also affects some local residents, especially young people," says Deputy Mayor Mariapia Caravaglia.
In just the last two months, a group of drunk tourists damaged the 17th-century Barcaccia fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps, and a drunk Colombian even drove a car on them, The Telegraph writes, citing the city administration.
"I am sorry that the night influx of tourists to the city center has negative consequences for its life," said Caravaglia. "Many tourist resorts in Spain and Greece face similar problems." The deputy mayor promised that in order to combat "imported drunkenness," more police officers will appear on the streets of Rome to ensure the safety of citizens and its ancient monuments.
Drunkenness is increasingly worrying local residents, who are alarmed that historical monuments are turning into bars for the amusement of tourists. "This is incredible," says Flaminia Borghese, who represents the interests of homeowners in the historic city center. "There is complete lawlessness." She supports measures to strengthen police patrols and also calls for measures to maintain quiet.
"The style of drinking has changed," admits Rome resident Dermot O'Connell. "Now it has become the norm to walk down the street with an open bottle of beer, which was not the case five years ago." "Why do you go to Rome to drink beer when you can do it somewhere else?" architect Giuseppe Strappa asks rhetorically. He believes that the problem arose more than 10 years ago, when the authorities began turning palazzos (historic buildings) into restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
The influx of foreigners into the Eternal City is growing every year. In 2007, Rome expects 20 million tourists.